With inter-ethnic tensions persisting in parts of the OSCE region, including the Caucasus and the Balkans, the U.S. Helsinki Commission will hold a hearing to examine how multilateral organizations can mitigate conflict. Commissioners will take testimony on efforts that have been employed to address tensions, discuss multilateral initiatives and state responsibilities.

The following witnesses are scheduled to testify:

Heidi Tagliavini, Ambassador and Under Secretary of State of Switzerland, who prepared the European Commission-sponsored report on the Russia-Georgia war

Peter Semneby, European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus

Soren Jessen-Peterson, former United Nations Head of Mission in Kosovo and former EU Special Representative in Macedonia

“Helsinki Commission Chair Rep. Chris Smith is honored for his efforts to promote an end to the division of Cyprus, with Alexis Galanos, President, Union of Cypriot Municipalities and Mayor of Famagusta, Cyprus. (June 2015)